Best Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini Recipe

If you’re a fan of classic espresso martinis and pumpkin spice lattes, you’ll adore this hybrid creation of a Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini. This cocktail is a delightful mix of rich espresso, velvety coffee liqueur, smooth vodka, and aromatic pumpkin spice syrup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cocktail is ideal for fall parties, Thanksgiving gatherings, or simply savoring next to a fall bonfire with good company. Coffee and pumpkin-flavored everything are both fall staples, and this recipe combines both of those elements into one glass.

What is an Espresso Martini?

Created in the 1980s, this cocktail has become quite popular, especially as of late. A classic espresso martini typically involves vodka, espresso, and a coffee liqueur, typically shaken and served in a martini glass.

One of its key characteristics is that the shaken espresso makes for a light and airy foam top. It is also is considered a pretty strong drink. It contains both alcohol and caffeine, making it potent in more ways than one.

Ingredient Notes

Vodka: I used regular vodka in this recipe, but a vanilla vodka works really well also. 

Espresso: While I prefer to use fresh espresso in an espresso martini, you can also use cold brew concentrate or strongly brewed French press coffee. See below for ways to make espresso without an expensive machine. 

Coffee liqueur: Kahula is the typical choice and is also what I used. However, you can also try another coffee liqueur such as Mr. Black. 

Pumpkin spice simple syrup: You can buy store-bought syrup or you can make a homemade pumpkin syrup. My homemade recipe includes real pumpkin puree. Making your own syrup is super easy and the leftovers will last in the fridge for weeks!

Garnishes: Three espresso beans garnished on top of the foam is the common garnish option for espresso martinis. For a Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini, I like to add a cinnamon stick as well. 

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Add the vodka and espresso to the cocktail shaker.

Step 2: Add the coffee liqueur and pumpkin syrup.

Step 3: Add ice and shake until well chilled (at least 30 seconds). Strain into a martini or coupe glass. 

Step 4: Garnish with coffee beans and/or cinnamon sticks, if desired.

Expert Tips and Variations

• Add the ice after adding the ingredients to the cocktail shaker to prevent excess dilution from the melting ice. For an extra cold martini, chill your martini glasses in the freezer for at least 15 minutes prior to making the drink. 

• Try rimming the glass in sugar and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. First, roll the glass in maple syrup or caramel sauce and then roll in the mixture. I did this for my Pumpkin Spice Margarita, and it was very good! 

• For a less sweet cocktail, decrease the amount of syrup and/or increase the amount of espresso.

• For a stronger coffee flavor, use coffee vodka instead of regular vodka. 

• Add a touch of heavy cream, coconut milk, or creamy Baileys Irish Cream to make a Pumpkin Spice Latte Martini. Or, make something creamy like my Pumpkin Spice Mudslide.

How to Make Espresso Without a Machine

You can make espresso in a moka pot or Aeropress, which are two WAY less expensive methods than a traditional espresso machine. As mentioned previously, you can also substitute strongly brewed coffee from a French press or buy cold brew concentrate. 

Best Coffee Liqueur to Use

Kahlúa is the most commonly used coffee liqueur for an espresso martini, which is also what I used. Other options include Mr. Black, Tia Maria, and St. George NOLA.